Makinde, Adeleke, George, others lead members at PDP Southwest zonal congress in Ibadan

The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde; his counterpart in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke; and former member of the Board of Trustees, Chief Olabode George, led members at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Southwest Zonal Congress in Ibadan on Wednesday.

The delegates are expected to elect the zonal executives of the party for the region in preparation for the National Convention scheduled to hold in Kano next month.

The election is being monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as well as security operatives, including the police.

The Chairman of the Electoral Committee and Chief Electoral Officer, former Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom, in his address, solicited support to ensure the exercise remains peaceful and rancor-free.

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He also commended the efforts of the founding fathers, elders, and leaders of the party for their steadfastness and continued commitment to the PDP.

“I want to thank the founding fathers of the Peoples Democratic Party who are still holding on with a strong belief in the party, which has helped it stand out and remain what it is today.

“I also want to thank our women and youths, particularly at the state level, who form the bedrock of the party.

“We welcome INEC officials and appreciate their presence and efforts.”

In his address, the host governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, recalled that the last zonal elective congress was filled with strife and struggles, but noted that the party has come a long way over the past four years.

“But today, the party in the zone is one united and happy family. Through this rancor-free elective congress, we are laying the foundation for how democracy should be practiced in the country.

“We have come a long way as a party. Four years ago, it was like a war—full of strife, rancor, and animosity. But today, we are one united Southwest PDP family.

“This elective congress is basically a fanfare for us. It is our opportunity to demonstrate how democracy should be practiced in Nigeria.

“So, the Southwest is leading the way. We are about to witness a rancor-free elective congress.

“All the stakeholders that should be here are here. INEC is here, observing what we are doing. The security agencies are also present. This is democracy at its peak. I can only wish us well.

“This is a foundation we are laying, and it will reflect what the PDP will do at its National Convention.”

Some of the dignitaries in attendance include Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo) and Ademola Adeleke (Osun), former Board of Trustees Chair Chief Bode George, Oyo Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Chief Bisi Ilaka, Chief Saka Balogun, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, Dare Adeleke, among others.

Details later.